Galatasaray and SC Braga are able to qualify for the Champions League once again
Galatasaray defeated Molde 2-1 in the second leg of the play-off round on Tuesday, securing a berth in the Champions League group stage at the cost of Molde. Braga also advanced.
After defeating Molde 5-3 on the road, Galatasaray will compete in the Champions League proper for the first time since 2019.
Mauro Icardi’s seventh-minute penalty increased the Istanbul giants’ lead from their 3-2 lead from the first leg last week.
In the second half, Veton Berisha believed he had tied the game when Eirik Hestad gave Molde hope, but his goal was disallowed for offside.
With his goal in stoppage time, former Manchester City left-back Angelino ensured Galatasaray’s qualification.
Braga defeated Panathinaikos 1-0 in Greece, winning the match 3-1 overall.
The Portuguese team, who made a strong impression by taking third place in the Primeira Liga last year, will compete in the group stage for the first time in eleven years.
Bruma scored a late goal to settle a suspenseful second leg.
After a scoreless first game, Swiss team Young Boys defeated Israeli team Maccabi Haifa 3-0 at home to advance as well.
PSV Eindhoven hosts Rangers on Wednesday after a 2-2 first-leg tie, while FC Copenhagen and Royal Antwerp both defend one-goal leads against Rakow and AEK Athens.
